Embracing Stillness: Trusting God in the Pause
Summary
Sometimes, we find ourselves in moments where we are told to simply stand still, to stop moving, and to remain where we are. In life, there are seasons when the urge to keep moving, to keep striving, is strong, but the wisdom is in learning to stand firm. The instruction to “stand right there” is not just about physical stillness, but about spiritual posture—being present, attentive, and receptive to what God is doing in the moment. There is a turning that is required, a willingness to shift our perspective or direction, even if it feels uncomfortable or unnecessary. The repeated affirmation—“Yes”—reminds us of the importance of agreement, of saying yes to God’s leading, even when we don’t fully understand the reason for the turn or the pause.
Standing still is not the same as being stagnant. It is an act of trust, a declaration that we believe God is at work even when we are not moving forward in the way we expect. Sometimes, the greatest act of faith is to remain where we are, to turn as God directs, and to say yes to His voice. In these moments, we are invited to listen, to be attentive, and to prepare our hearts for what comes next. The morning greeting is a reminder that each day is a new opportunity to respond to God’s call with openness and readiness.
Key Takeaways
- Standing still is an act of faith, not passivity. When instructed to “stand right there,” it is an invitation to trust that God is working in the stillness, shaping us and preparing us for what is next. This posture of waiting is often where God does His deepest work in our hearts. [00:01]
- The call to “turn” is a call to obedience, even when the reason is not clear. Sometimes God asks us to change direction or perspective, and our willingness to turn is a sign of our surrender to His will. Obedience in small things prepares us for greater things ahead. [00:10]
- Repeated affirmation—saying “yes” to God—cultivates a heart of agreement and readiness. Each “yes” is a step deeper into trust, even when the path is uncertain. Our agreement with God’s direction opens us to His purposes in our lives. [00:15]
- Being present in the moment is a spiritual discipline. When we are told we don’t have to move anymore, it is a call to be attentive to what God is doing right now, rather than being preoccupied with what’s next. Presence allows us to hear God’s voice more clearly. [00:03]
- Every new day is an opportunity to respond to God’s invitation with openness. The simple greeting of “Good morning” is a reminder that God’s mercies are new every morning, and we are invited to begin again with a posture of faith and expectation. [00:20]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[00:01] - The Call to Stand Still
[00:03] - Embracing Spiritual Stillness
[00:10] - The Importance of Turning
[00:12] - Obedience in Small Things
[00:15] - Saying Yes to God
[00:17] - The Power of Repetition
[00:20] - A New Morning, A New Beginning
[00:22] - Responding to God’s Invitation
[00:25] - Living in Readiness
[00:28] - Trusting God in the Pause
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: "Standing Still, Turning, and Saying Yes"
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### Bible Reading
- Exodus 14:13-14
Moses answered the people, “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.”
- Psalm 46:10
He says, “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.”
- Lamentations 3:22-23
Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
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### Observation Questions
1. In Exodus 14:13-14, what does Moses tell the people to do when they are afraid and facing a difficult situation?
2. According to Psalm 46:10, what does God ask us to do, and what is the reason given?
3. In the sermon, what is the difference between standing still and being stagnant? [00:01]
4. How does the phrase “Good morning” connect to the idea of God’s mercies being new every day? [00:20]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why might God ask someone to “stand still” instead of moving forward? What could He be doing in those moments? [00:01]
2. What does it mean to “turn” when God asks, even if it feels unnecessary or uncomfortable? How is this an act of obedience? [00:10]
3. How does saying “yes” to God, even repeatedly, shape a person’s heart and faith? [00:15]
4. What does it look like to be spiritually present and attentive, rather than always thinking about what’s next? [00:03]
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### Application Questions
1. Can you think of a time when you felt God was telling you to stop striving and just “stand still”? What was challenging about that? How did you respond? [00:01]
2. Is there an area in your life right now where you sense God asking you to “turn” or change direction? What would it look like to say “yes” even if you don’t understand why? [00:10]
3. When you hear the instruction to “stand right there,” do you tend to feel restless or at peace? What helps you trust God in those moments? [00:01]
4. How can you practice being more present and attentive to what God is doing in your life today, instead of worrying about the future? [00:03]
5. The sermon talked about saying “yes” to God over and over. Is there something God is asking you to say “yes” to right now? What is holding you back? [00:15]
6. Each morning is a new opportunity to respond to God. What is one practical way you can start your day with openness and readiness for what God wants to do? [00:20]
7. How might waiting on God and trusting Him in the “pause” prepare you for what’s next? Can you share a story where waiting led to growth or a new direction? [00:28]
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Devotional
Day 1: Standing Firm in Your Place
There are moments in life when you are told you no longer need to move or strive, but instead, you are invited to stand right where you are. In these times, it is important to recognize that God sometimes calls you to be still and trust that He has placed you exactly where you need to be. Standing firm is not about passivity, but about confidence in God’s placement and purpose for you in this season. [00:05]
Exodus 14:13-14 (ESV)
And Moses said to the people, “Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you today. For the Egyptians whom you see today, you shall never see again. The Lord will fight for you, and you have only to be silent.”
Reflection: Where in your life do you sense God asking you to stop striving and simply stand firm, trusting Him to work on your behalf?
Day 2: The Power of Turning
Sometimes, a simple act of turning—changing your direction or perspective—can open you up to new possibilities and God’s guidance. Turning is not always about a dramatic change, but about being attentive and responsive to God’s gentle nudges, even when you don’t fully understand why. [00:13]
Acts 3:19 (ESV)
Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out,
Reflection: Is there an area in your life where God is prompting you to turn or change direction, even if it feels small or unclear? What would it look like to respond today?
Day 3: Obedience in the Simple Yes
There is power in saying “yes” to God, even when the request seems repetitive or unclear. Each “yes” is an act of obedience that builds trust and deepens your relationship with Him, reminding you that faithfulness in the small things matters greatly. [00:20]
Matthew 21:28-31a (ESV)
“What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ And he answered, ‘I will not,’ but afterward he changed his mind and went. And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘I go, sir,’ but did not go. Which of the two did the will of his father?” They said, “The first.”
Reflection: What is one simple “yes” you can offer to God today, even if you don’t fully understand the outcome?
Day 4: Embracing Repetition in Faith
Sometimes, God’s instructions may seem repetitive—He may ask you to do the same thing over and over. Embracing this repetition is an act of faith, trusting that God is working through your consistency and that each act of obedience has purpose, even if you don’t see immediate results. [00:24]
Galatians 6:9 (ESV)
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
Reflection: In what area of your life do you feel weary from repetition, and how can you renew your faith to keep going today?
Day 5: Welcoming Each New Morning
Every morning is a fresh opportunity to greet God, to say “good morning” to His presence and His mercies that are new each day. Welcoming each day with gratitude and openness sets the tone for experiencing God’s faithfulness and love, no matter what the day holds. [00:28]
Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV)
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.
Reflection: How can you intentionally welcome God’s presence and new mercies as you begin your day today?
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